The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath art gallery is a perfect destination for an afternoon of culture. Here you will find an eclectic collection of Indian and international contemporary art alongside lavish gold-leaf works, Mysore-style paintings and folk and tribal art from across the subcontinent. Do not miss the galleries devoted to the Russian master Nicholas Roerich and his beautiful paintings of the Himalayas.

Botanize among a unique collection of military aircraft, become a pilot for a while or experience Sweden during the cold war. There is a lot to discover at the Air Force Museum for both grown ups and children. You’ll find the most special plane in the basement. It’s the wreck of the DC-3 shot down in the 1950s and rediscovered at the bottom of the sea in 2003. In the Flight Lab, you can try being a pilot. You’ll have an exciting day with lots of fun for the whole family. The museum is open all year round and have free admission.

The palace of the sultans with its many courtyards and gates brings on a nostalgia for forgone times. There are several special museums in the area; highlights include the Treasure Chamber, where the famous dagger and Spoonmaker's diamond are true stars of the collection, and the harem, where the sultan’s wives and children lived. None of these are included in the ticket price to the palace.

A trip to Iraq is often driven by a passion for history, and Ancient Babylon, located roughly 100 kilometres south of Baghdad, is a key attraction. Since accommodation near the site is limited, most visitors opt for a day trip from the capital. To reach Babylon, head to the Alawi car park, locally referred to as the 'garage', and ask about shared taxis or minivans heading there. The journey costs no more than 15,000 Iraqi dinars and takes about two hours. These vehicles typically drop passengers a few kilometres from the entrance, so you may need to arrange a local taxi or ask nearby residents for assistance. Currently, entrance to the archaeological site costs 25,000 Iraqi dinars, approximately $18 USD. Payment by card is possible, but it's advisable to carry cash, as foreign cards may not always be accepted. Inside, the ruins reveal a fascinating glimpse into the past. The main area consists of castle-like arches leading to wide terraces, alongside the remnants of the ancient gardens and in the distance, Saddam Hussein’s hilltop mansion looms. Access to the mansion is not guaranteed, as its opening appears to depend on the day and circumstance.